In commemoration of World Environment Day 2025, Ibeju-Lekki Local Government hosted sister local governments and local council development areas (LCDAs) from the Epe Division in a rallying call to action against plastic pollution. The event, themed “Ending Plastic Pollution,” underscored the environmental and public health threats posed by plastic waste while emphasizing the need for grassroots advocacy and collective responsibility.
Speaking at the event, the Executive Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government, Hon. Abdullahi Sesan Olowa, described plastic pollution as a significant environmental crisis with far-reaching consequences. He noted that identifying the root causes of pollution is key to finding lasting solutions and urged the various councils to intensify campaigns against the use of synthetic polymers. Hon. Olowa also highlighted the deeply entrenched culture of indiscriminate waste disposal among residents, calling for a shift in attitude and a renewed commitment to environmental sanitation. He appealed for continued community support for government initiatives aimed at achieving environmental sustainability.
Delivering the welcome address on behalf of the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of the Environment, Mr. Bolaji Fasasi stated that plastic waste remains one of the most severe threats to public health and marine ecosystems. He emphasized that pollution compromises biodiversity and increases health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly.
Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, Managing Director of the Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), who represented the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Hon. Tokunbo Wahab, also addressed the audience. He noted that Lagos, as Nigeria’s economic hub, faces complex environmental challenges due to its limited landmass and rapidly growing population. Dr. Gbadegesin explained that plastics can take up to 500 years to decompose, warning that their continued use contributes to long-term environmental degradation. He reaffirmed the Lagos State Government’s commitment to leading a zero-waste initiative through innovative waste management policies.
A highlight of the celebration was the presentation of cleanliness awards to communities across the division. Adekunle Raheem Street in Epe emerged as the third-place winner, with the award presented by Hon. Tosin Osinnuga, Secretary to the Local Government of Lekki LCDA. Divine Estate in Bogije took second place, with the presentation by Mr. Bolaji Fasasi. The first-place award went to Michael Otedola Housing Estate in Odo-Iragushi, Eredo, and was presented by Hon. Olowa. The host local government, Ibeju-Lekki, also received the Environmental Champions Award in recognition of its commitment to sustainable practices.
Students of Ibeju High School delivered a captivating drama performance advocating for a plastic-free environment, further reinforcing the message of the day. Their performance drew attention to the role of youth in building a cleaner, healthier future.
The event was attended by a range of dignitaries, including the Supervisor for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Abisola Azeez; Council Manager, Mr. Abiodun Oladipupo Otinwa; Head of Environmental Services, Mrs. Mary Akinola; Director of Administration and Human Resources, Mr. Sotubo Adeyemi Oladipupo; as well as representatives from the Community Development Committees (CDCs), the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), and other community leaders.
The event concluded with a resounding call for intensified community engagement, policy enforcement, and behavioral change as essential tools in the fight against plastic pollution and the broader quest for environmental sustainability.